Safety

Gliding is one of the safest sports and we endeavour to do all we can to prevent accident or injury. The CFI has overall responsibility for all flying activities. The Safety Officer is responsible for all safety matters at the club or on the airfield.

Safety on the ground
You should be aware of the following safety points when arriving at the airfield

• Do not take your vehicle or go onto the airfield without obtaining directions from a club member
  
  
• Gliders and aircraft can land from any direction and gliders are silent. Keep a good lookout in all directions
  
  
• The tow plane tows a long rope
  
  
• Propellers are dangerous. A moving propeller is almost invisible but lethal. A stationary propeller could move by itself at any time. Never go anywhere near a powered aircraft on the ground
  
  
• The winch cable runs from the winch at one of the field to the launch point at the other and is attached to a very powerful engine. This cable drops rapidly from the glider after a launch. Keep well clear of cables.
  
  
• Never stand in front of a glider that is about to be launched

Safety in the air
On trial lessons, as with all flying, safety is our top priority. We do all we can to minimise risks and it is important that you help us with this.

• Your instructor will show you before you get in to the glider where you can safely put your hands and feet
  
  
• You will be wearing a parachute so that in an emergency you can to exit the glider in the air. This not because gliders are inherently dangerous but there have been rare cases which have necessitated their use
  
  
• Keep a good lookout at all times when in the air for other gliders and aircraft. Your instructor will be keeping a good lookout but will value your help
  
  
• Make sure your straps are tight and secure for take off and landing
  
  
• In the air your instructor will show you which controls you can use and will explain a procedure for describing who is operating the controls at any time
  
  
• If you have any questions before or during your flight please ask your instructor